Understanding a Commercial Roofing Warranty

Understanding a Commercial Roofing Warranty

The commercial roofing contractor you choose to install your new roof plays a fundamental role in the endurance of this asset and its performance. A warranty for your commercial roof is critical to your investment.  Due to its importance, commercial property owners and managers should recognize all aspects of their commercial roofing system installation.

Choosing the Right Commercial Roofing Contractor

The effectiveness of your roofing system is determined by two components: the quality of the materials and the workmanship. Still, the highest quality materials can fail to perform to their capabilities. While suitable warranties are important when choosing a material manufacturer and installer, it’s important not to let these details distort the experience and track record of the commercial roofing contractors themselves.

What’s Covered?

Commercial roofing contractors will typically stand behind their workmanship for 1-5 years with an average duration of 2 years. If your commercial roofing material fails due to incorrect installation, your contractor will fix the problem. Never work with a roofing contractor unwilling or unable to back up their work.

A contractor’s warranty is only as good as the paper it’s written on. There can be a vast difference between warranties…so it’s a good idea to look at the fine print. It’s important to note that these warranties are not one-size-fits-all. The terms, conditions, and lengths can drastically vary based on the roofing material used and the installation specifics. It is important to hire a contractor with a reputation for excellent client experience and a successful track record as a certified material installer.

What Does it Mean for my Roofing Asset?

A commercial roofing contractor who believes in the quality of their work and utilizes proper roofing techniques will have no problem offering you a warranty. On the other hand, a contractor who takes shortcuts and uses cheaper materials will offer you a warranty that expires shortly before the cracks begin to show, or none at all.

What’s not Covered?

Here are some examples of roof deficiencies that are not covered by a warranty:

• Water ponding damage due to ice dams in the roof drainage system
• Damage caused by foot traffic installing or accessing roof-mounted utilities
• High wind, storm, and hail impact damage
• Leaks caused by wind-driven debris or falling tree limbs
• Damages resulting from a post-installation alteration to the roof surface

Hiring the right commercial roofing contractor can mean the difference between a long-lasting roof that performs well and a roof that causes problems immediately.

How do I Maintain my Warranty?

Regular inspections and routine maintenance are key in keeping your commercial roof warranty in good standing with the material manufacturer and installer. These preventative steps are not simply a matter of best practices; they are often mandatory conditions. Failure to meet these requirements can result in the warranty being voided, leaving you without coverage when needed.

Routine professional inspections are critical for identifying issues that, if unaddressed, could void your warranty. These inspections should be scheduled as required by the terms of your agreement, recommended bi-annually or at a minimum, annually.

Maintenance involves addressing the issues identified during these inspections. Issues can range from removing debris and securing flashing to patching punctures and applying sealant. It’s necessary to complete the maintenance recommendations that follow an inspection, as neglecting them can lead to more significant problems that may not be covered under your warranty due to non-compliance with maintenance requirements.

Keeping a record of all inspections and maintenance work performed on your commercial roof is also required. This documentation is your proof of compliance, which is critical if you need to file a claim.

Secure Your Commercial Roofing Asset Investment with PB Roofing’s THREATCheck

DISCOVER. IDENTIFY. RESOLVE.

A THREATCheck Assessment is an enhanced visual inspection to identify deficiencies and provide recommendations for repairs or replacement.

As a full-service commercial roofing company, we help our clients navigate our manufacturer’s warranties and provide honest guidance on their building’s best option. We have Emergency Response, Repair, and Replacement services available.

As the installation contractor, PB Roofing provides two years of coverage over issues resulting from any possible flaws stemming from our team’s work.

Visit PB Roofing’s Blog Back Issue “Making the Most of Your Commercial Roof Warranty”